Best things to do in Brighton
Find out more about those top places in Brighton
Brighton: The Eccentric Seaside Paradise You Didn’t Know You Needed
Welcome to Brighton, the coolest, quirkiest, and most eccentric city on England’s southern coast. Whether you’re a lover of seaside views, countercultural history, or just someone looking for a place to enjoy life with a bit of flair, Brighton is one of the top places to visit in the UK. With its mix of Georgian charm and modern-day eccentricity, Brighton offers a perfect blend of things to do and places to explore that will keep you on your toes, no matter the weather.
Top Attractions in Brighton: Your Ultimate Travel Guide
Brighton may be known for its charming, quirky vibe, but it’s also home to some of the most iconic attractions in the UK. From historic buildings to modern seaside fun, this city is all about mixing old-school British charm with edgy cool. Here’s your guide to the must-visit places in Brighton.
1. The Royal Pavilion: Where the East Meets the West
First up on the list is the Royal Pavilion, Brighton’s most famous landmark. This Oriental-inspired palace was once the royal residence of King George IV, and it’s as grand and opulent as you can imagine. With its exotic domes and spires, it looks like something straight out of a fairy tale (or a Bollywood movie). You’ll want to explore the lavish interiors and get lost in its rich history—after all, it’s one of the top tourist attractions in Brighton. It’s as if someone mixed royal elegance with a dash of exotic flair, and we’re here for it.
2. Brighton Pier: Neon Lights and Nostalgic Fun
No visit to Brighton is complete without taking a stroll down the iconic Brighton Pier. This neon-lit wonderland is the perfect blend of old-school charm and modern fun. Whether you’re into arcade games, fairground rides, or just taking in the seaside breeze while snacking on fish and chips, Brighton Pier has something for everyone. And let’s not forget about the amazing views of the coastline—perfect for that Instagram shot you’ve been planning.
3. The Lanes: The Secret Alleyways of Brighton
Beyond the beach, Brighton’s true magic lies in its winding, quirky alleys—locally known as The Lanes. Picture this: cobbled streets packed with independent shops, vintage boutiques, hip cafes, and the occasional burlesque house. It’s the kind of place where you can spend hours just wandering and getting lost in the vibrant atmosphere. Whether you’re searching for local art, handcrafted jewelry, or a quirky gift for a friend, The Lanes is where you’ll find it. It’s like a treasure hunt, but with a lot more coffee breaks.
4. Brighton Beach: The Classic British Seaside Escape
When the weather’s behaving (which, let’s face it, is a bit of a gamble in the UK), head to Brighton Beach to soak up the classic British seaside vibes. Whether you're lounging on the pebbly shore, strolling along the promenade, or jumping in for a quick dip (brave, we say!), there’s something nostalgic about a beach day in Brighton. Don’t forget to grab some traditional fish and chips or maybe try a classic Donut from one of the many vendors along the shore. Just remember, this isn’t a sandy beach—the pebbles are part of the charm, right?
5. British Airways i360: Soar Above the City
If you’re looking for a bird’s-eye view of Brighton, hop on the British Airways i360. This sleek, futuristic observation tower offers a panoramic view of the city, the coast, and on a clear day, all the way to the South Downs. It’s a great way to get a bird’s-eye view of Brighton’s stunning coastline while pretending you’re in a spy movie. The rotating glass pod takes you to a height of 162 meters, making it one of the most unique sightseeing experiences in Brighton.
Things to Do in Brighton: Quirky, Cool, and Totally Fun
Brighton is a city that thrives on its eclectic mix of old and new. So, if you’re looking for even more things to do, check out these fun and quirky activities that will give you a taste of what makes this seaside gem so special.
1. Take a Vintage Ride at Brighton’s Oldest Amusement Park
If you’re in the mood for some nostalgic fun, head to Brighton’s Volks Railway, the oldest electric railway in the world. Hop on one of the vintage trains and take a ride along the coastline for a truly classic British experience.
2. Visit the Brighton Museum and Art Gallery
For those interested in a bit of culture, head to the Brighton Museum and Art Gallery. The museum offers a fascinating collection of art, design, and local history. You’ll find everything from art deco furniture to Egyptian antiquities, making it a fantastic spot for history buffs and culture lovers alike.
3. Enjoy a Pint in a Historic Pub
Brighton is full of historic pubs, some of which date back centuries. These traditional watering holes serve up local ales and hearty meals—perfect for winding down after a busy day of sightseeing. If you're in the mood for something quirky, pop into The Cricketers, a charming Victorian pub that’s as full of character as it is of beer.
Brighton: The Ultimate Mix of Seaside Charm and Eccentricity
Brighton is a city that’s as cool as it is eccentric, with places to visit and things to do that blend the traditional with the quirky. Whether you’re soaking in the culture at the Royal Pavilion, enjoying a pint by the sea, or shopping your heart out in the Lanes, this vibrant seaside city never fails to leave you with unforgettable memories.
So, if you’re looking for a little escapism with a side of countercultural cool, Brighton’s the place to be. Grab your sunglasses, pack your sense of adventure, and let this iconic British city show you a good time!
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Royal Pavilion
The Royal Pavilion has been many things over its very history rich 200 years of existence. It was originality commissioned by King George IV to serve as his seaside pleasure palace before it was later repurposed to serve as a civic center. During the first World War, the Pavilion was again converted into a hospital.
The pavilion finally gained its magnificence after a brilliant transformation was made by John Nash in 1811 as commissioned by George, the Prince of Wales after he became the Prince Regent.
Over the course of its history, the Royal Pavilion has grown to become an icon for the people of Brighton.
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British Airways i360
If you’re tired of looking at old buildings and need to see something fresh for a change, the British Airways i360 is your best bet. Experience a one of a kind journey to the future, ride all the way up 138 meters! Then settle in the lush foyer to soak up the magnificent view of the South coast and Brighton from the airways i360 glass viewing pod.
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The Lanes
Another great place to kick start your tour of Brighton is to visit the Lanes. The Lanes are famous for its collection of really narrow lanes lined with small shops and even breaking away to form even narrower alleyways. The narrow lanes of The Lanes run all the way from Brighton to Hove. A little window shopping or a romantic evening walk on The Lanes is the best way to start your tour of Brighton.
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South Downs National Park
The South Downs national park is the newest national park in England. It became fully operational on the First of April 2011. Its main attraction is the Seven Sisters. The seven sisters are a series of chalk cliffs by the English Channel across the Cuckmere river. Other attractions on the national park are the devils' dyke, the Coastguard cottages and cape of Beachy head.
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Brighton Marina
In Brighton and looking for the perfect mix of luxury and the sea breeze? Brighton Marina is the place to be. Situated on a busy yacht harbor, the Brighton Marina is the hub of luxury fashion boutiques, antique and craft shops, few galleries and restaurants with terraces overlooking the water, selling fresh sea food amongst other things. Getting to the Brighton Marina is easy, just hop on the Volk’s Electric Railway, as it shuttles between the marina and Brighton Pier. If you’re looking for something more exclusive, they’re a ton of Charter boats offering fishing tours and diving trips.
